Overview

Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is the root of a vegetable native to the Andes region of Peru. Maca root is also known as “Peruvian ginseng,” even though it doesn’t belong to the same botanical family as ginseng. Maca is consumed as a food and is sometimes used to boost energy and libido (sexual drive).

Benefits

Maca root is a nutritional powerhouse that has been in use for thousands of years as a Peruvian dietary staple and traditional medicine. The food is unique in that it affects men and women differently.
Maca does work on various levels to support a healthy sex drive. First, its high-nutrient content and several vitamins including iron, potassium and manganese revitalizes the entire body. Second, maca works to support healthy testosterone levels thereby increasing energy, stamina and vitality.

Maca is anabolic (muscle building). It has a high content of bio-available protein and other nutrients that support healthy, natural muscle growth. It is a favorite supplement among natural bodybuilders as well as an ingredient in many muscle building blends.

Maca root can help balance hormone levels and control the amount of estrogen in the body.estrogen is the primary female sex hormone responsible for regulating the reproductive system. An imbalance in this vital hormone can cause a slew of symptoms ranging from bloating to irregular menstrual periods and mood swings. Estrogen levels that are too high or low can also make it difficult for a woman to ovulate and become pregnant.

Menopause is a natural process that can be uncomfortable and frustrating, but maca root powder has been shown to help with some of these symptoms. One recent study found that taking a daily dose of maca root powder led to a decrease in hot flashes, night sweats and vaginal dryness.

Maca root acts as a natural antioxidant, boosting levels of antioxidants like glutathione and superoxide dismutase in the body. Antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals, fighting off chronic disease and preventing damage to cells.
Maca does not contain testosterone or any other hormone. Instead it stimulates the body to produce and regulate hormones in order to achieve a healthy hormone balance.

Maca is an adaptogen, which means it works to balance your body’s hormones and energy levels. This makes it one of the most popular supplements for people dealing with low energy or fatigue. In addition to boosting your energy levels, maca powder may also help reduce stress and anxiety while increasing mental clarity and memory function.
Maca can help with mood swings, anxiety and depression by regulating the levels of serotonin in your brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that controls how happy you feel throughout the day, so if you have low serotonin levels, you may feel depressed or anxious without realizing it.

Dosage

As a dietary supplements for adults take 3 capsules daily preferably after meal or as directed by physician.

Precautions

As with many other supplements, maca hasn’t been tested for safety in children or people who are pregnant or lactating. Due to this lack of information, it should not be used in these groups.

However, due to its effect on hormones, people with thyroid problems should avoid taking maca. It is also better to avoid taking maca when undergoing treatments that modify hormonal levels, such as treatments for breast cancer.

Side Effects

Maca is not currently associated with any health risks in most people and is unlikely to cause any side effects in moderate doses.

Nutritional Value

One Ounce (or about 2 tablespoons) of  Maca Powder Contains Approximately:

91 calories
20 grams carbohydrates
4 grams protein
1 gram fat
2 grams dietary fiber
79.8 milligrams vitamin C (133 percent DV)
1.7 milligrams copper (84 percent DV)
4.1 milligrams iron (23 percent DV)
560 milligrams potassium (16 percent DV)
0.3 milligram vitamin B6 (16 percent DV)
0.2 milligram manganese (11 percent DV)
1.6 milligrams niacin (8 percent DV)
70 milligrams calcium (7 percent DV)
0.1 milligram riboflavin (6 percent DV)